Getting Past the Data Problem

To begin designing and building the homes, Kwangu needed market data, as would any other business about to start or expand its operations. Although Simon’s time at Synergy had already introduced him to a lot of people in the communities he wanted to serve, he still needed specific information about his target market’s housing needs and specifications. 

Unfortunately, the lack of pre-existing data is often a major roadblock for companies in Africa. To get around this issue, Simon tried to do as much first-hand research as possible. Both he and his co-founder, Winnie Gitau, spoke to numerous potential customers directly to understand their problems and find out what sort of product would help them most. You can read descriptions of their research on their blog.

Simon is keen to point out that having a co-founder was as critical to success in the company’s early stages as it is today. Winnie is very skilled in community engagement, and she has been essential in enabling Kwangu to get data from potential customers. Simon advises entrepreneurs to find local partners with complementary skills to co-create products and services that will be accepted by the end-user.

Getting Started in a New Country

Simon says that he received a lot of help in the initial stages of running his business, including access to office space while his business got on its feet. “There’s a whole network of social enterprises willing to help someone new,” he explains. Building a network early on can greatly ease the way, so Simon recommends co-working spaces and hubs like Nairobi Garage that bring together entrepreneurs from different fields. 

He also advises interested non-Kenyans to take the time to experience Kenya for themselves to create more empathy and understanding. “You are here to enable, facilitate and support,” he adds. Anyone who wants to break into the Kenyan market needs to understand that they can’t import an idea straight from their home market and expect it to work. The environment in every country and every city is different, and what works in one place won’t always work in another.

Registration and Working with the Government

Dealing with regulation is easier now, Simon observes. At the beginning, he spent a lot more time dealing with bureaucracy. Things are faster now, especially with the government’s online systems for registration and tax payment. Simon counsels entrepreneurs to plan ahead and make sure to get the paperwork together well before the deadline. “Don’t leave things for the last minute,” he advises.

Final Words

Simon came to Kenya to try something different for a short while. Ten years later, he is growing his business, making a difference, and fully settled into his adoptive country. “I came with two bags for two years and I’m still here,” he says.

Since he arrived in the country, Simon has seen Kenya develop exponentially. He notes the new highways and increased internet connectivity. Africa is quickly becoming a prime business hub. More and more people who previously considered the continent only as a humanitarian aid recipient are recognizing the value and potential of Africa’s growing private sector. Simon saw a problem that he could fix and built a business to implement the solution. 

He is excited to see where the country and Africa will be in the next five to ten years. “People are beginning to recognize the value that is here.”